MŌRIAH. Photo: Raul Esparza
Singer, songwriter and actress MŌRIAH has had her boots on the ground in Music City since she was 17 years old. She recently stopped by MusicRow to share some new tunes and give a glimpse into what’s coming next in her career.
When MŌRIAH moved to Nashville, she came with no family, no friends and no plan. She had a scholarship secured to attend a university in California after high school, but the haunting vision of a future without music or creativity compelled her to take a bold leap—moving across the country before her 18th birthday.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Liza Anderson & LB Cantrell, MŌRIAH, MusicRow’s Madison Hahnen, Sherod Robertson & John Nix Arledge.
“The Nashville community has been so generous,” MŌRIAH says. “People have taught me how to produce music, sent me tutorial videos, taught me how to edit music videos and spent time writing songs with me. I feel like I’m a bit of a sponge, [soaking bits up] from all of the talented people in this town.”
Over the past 10 years, MŌRIAH has honed her sound and refined her artistry, ultimately discovering what feels most natural and authentic to her. For the first time, she is releasing music that is more vulnerable than ever, because it has to do with her family and where she comes from. She started off the afternoon of singing with the dreamy “Hasta Mañana,” showing off her developed sound.
The singer-songwriter has recently been creatively moved by her great grandmother’s ranch in El Paso, Texas. The one acre of dirt is equipped with a double wide trailer with no electricity or running water, but that has not stopped her family from spending time there. The ranch inspired the next tune she played, “Nice Life,” which was accompanied by her great grandmother’s own accordion.
“I’ve been an artist for so long but I did it in a really backwards way,” she explains. “I went on my first tour when I was 17; I was opening arena shows with a ukulele. I didn’t earn those rooms, therefore I didn’t catch the magic of live performance until much later.
Pictured (L-R): Fletcher Foster, MŌRIAH and MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson.
“The magic of music has really been healed in rooms like this,” she continues. “There’s just something about being this close with each of you.” MŌRIAH then went into the first song she wrote for her upcoming project, “Whiskey Is His Wife.”
MŌRIAH released her latest EP, Curtain Call, in 2022 and is currently collaborating with producer Paul Mabury on her upcoming album. The project, two years in the making, showcases her love for country music while incorporating Spanish lyrics—a heartfelt nod to her family and heritage. When she started playing it for people this summer, she found her team forming and listeners perking up, especially for the tune “Sombrero,” which she ended the afternoon with.
On the big screen, MŌRIAH has held the lead role in Because of Gracia and currently plays a role in the series Bathsheba. She also acted alongside Dennis Quaid in the Ronald Reagan biopic Reagan. She also has hosted the BECOMING:us podcast with her husband Joel Smallbone. The two also co-produced the 2024 film Unsung Hero.
Thomas Rhett Racks Up 23rd No. 1 With ‘Beautiful As You’
/by Lorie HollabaughPhoto: Courtesy of The Valory Music Co.
Thomas Rhett has scored his 23rd career No. 1 with “Beautiful As You,” which holds the top spot this week on the Mediabase chart.
The single was recently certified Gold, and is featured on Rhett’s seventh studio album, About A Woman. Co-written by Rhett and Julian Bunetta alongside Alexander Izquierdo, Joshua Emanuel Coleman and Zaire Kelsey, the song has quickly become a fan favorite.
Additionally, Rhett and Teddy Swims teamed up to perform a medley of Rhett’s “Somethin’ ‘Bout A Woman” and Swims’ Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 “Lose Control” during the 58th annual CMA Awards. He is also currently gearing up for a four-night residency in December at the BleauLive Theater inside Fontainebleau Las Vegas.
BMI Hosts Creative Community Mixer With Tay Keith
/by LB CantrellPictured (L-R): BMI’s Shannon Sanders, Tay Keith, BMI’s Christopher Scott-Wallace and BMI’s Clay Bradley attend BMI’s Creative Community Mixer at PROOF in Nashville. Photo: Larry McCormack for BMI
BMI recently hosted a Creative Community Mixer event at PROOF in downtown Nashville, bringing together members of Music City’s hip-hop and country communities.
Pictured (L-R): Gentle King Group’s Craig King, The BoykinZ, Drumatized executives Cambrian Strong and more, BMI’s Josh Tomlinson, Christopher Scott-Wallace, Shannon Sanders and Clay Bradley, and guests attend BMI’s Creative Community Mixer at PROOF in Nashville. Photo: Larry McCormack for BMI
The invitation-only event was done in partnership between BMI and celebrated producer and Tennessee native Tay Keith, a three-time winner of BMI’s Producer of the Year award who is behind hits like “Sicko Mode” by Travis Scott, “Not Alike” by Eminem and his own “Pound Town” featuring Sexxy Red.
The event brought together BMI affiliates and industry executives across genres for a relaxed evening of networking. Attendees included The BoykinZ, DJ Meech, LuhRon, Dizzy, Gentle King Group’s Craig King, Electric Feel Entertainment’s John Bradley, Cambrian Strong, executives from Drumatized Records and others.
Atwell Songs Launches In Nashville
/by Lorie HollabaughJesse Atwell and Paige Reese
Jesse Atwell and Paige Reese have launched Atwell Songs, a new publishing administration company based in Nashville.
The company is a joint venture between Atwell of Atwell Music Group, and Reese of Leven Works, with both executives acting as Co-Founders of the new venture and Reese leading the company. Atwell Songs offers complete publishing administration services for songwriters while maintaining a hands-on approach to client service and allowing writers to retain complete ownership and copyright of their music.
“Atwell Songs is a natural extension of Atwell Music Group. We’re excited to provide a comprehensive suite of publishing administration services to songwriters and artists,” says Atwell. “With Paige’s expertise and passion for music, we’re confident that Atwell Songs will be a valuable asset to the music community.”
“We’re committed to providing our clients with the highest level of service and support,” adds Reese. “And we’re here to empower songwriters and help them achieve their full potential, by making sure they’re getting paid what they’re due.”
On The Row: MŌRIAH Infuses Her Roots Into Music City
/by Madison HahnenMŌRIAH. Photo: Raul Esparza
Singer, songwriter and actress MŌRIAH has had her boots on the ground in Music City since she was 17 years old. She recently stopped by MusicRow to share some new tunes and give a glimpse into what’s coming next in her career.
When MŌRIAH moved to Nashville, she came with no family, no friends and no plan. She had a scholarship secured to attend a university in California after high school, but the haunting vision of a future without music or creativity compelled her to take a bold leap—moving across the country before her 18th birthday.
Pictured (L-R): MusicRow’s Liza Anderson & LB Cantrell, MŌRIAH, MusicRow’s Madison Hahnen, Sherod Robertson & John Nix Arledge.
“The Nashville community has been so generous,” MŌRIAH says. “People have taught me how to produce music, sent me tutorial videos, taught me how to edit music videos and spent time writing songs with me. I feel like I’m a bit of a sponge, [soaking bits up] from all of the talented people in this town.”
Over the past 10 years, MŌRIAH has honed her sound and refined her artistry, ultimately discovering what feels most natural and authentic to her. For the first time, she is releasing music that is more vulnerable than ever, because it has to do with her family and where she comes from. She started off the afternoon of singing with the dreamy “Hasta Mañana,” showing off her developed sound.
The singer-songwriter has recently been creatively moved by her great grandmother’s ranch in El Paso, Texas. The one acre of dirt is equipped with a double wide trailer with no electricity or running water, but that has not stopped her family from spending time there. The ranch inspired the next tune she played, “Nice Life,” which was accompanied by her great grandmother’s own accordion.
“I’ve been an artist for so long but I did it in a really backwards way,” she explains. “I went on my first tour when I was 17; I was opening arena shows with a ukulele. I didn’t earn those rooms, therefore I didn’t catch the magic of live performance until much later.
Pictured (L-R): Fletcher Foster, MŌRIAH and MusicRow’s Sherod Robertson.
“The magic of music has really been healed in rooms like this,” she continues. “There’s just something about being this close with each of you.” MŌRIAH then went into the first song she wrote for her upcoming project, “Whiskey Is His Wife.”
MŌRIAH released her latest EP, Curtain Call, in 2022 and is currently collaborating with producer Paul Mabury on her upcoming album. The project, two years in the making, showcases her love for country music while incorporating Spanish lyrics—a heartfelt nod to her family and heritage. When she started playing it for people this summer, she found her team forming and listeners perking up, especially for the tune “Sombrero,” which she ended the afternoon with.
On the big screen, MŌRIAH has held the lead role in Because of Gracia and currently plays a role in the series Bathsheba. She also acted alongside Dennis Quaid in the Ronald Reagan biopic Reagan. She also has hosted the BECOMING:us podcast with her husband Joel Smallbone. The two also co-produced the 2024 film Unsung Hero.
‘IT’S TIIIIIIIME!’ Mariah Carey Brings Christmas To Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena
/by Sherod RobertsonMariah Carey’s “Christmas Time Tour.” Photo: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey’s “Christmas Time Tour” brought nostalgic holiday classics and the iconic star’s greatest hits to Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena last night (Nov. 25). The arena was transformed into a festive wonderland as the tour made its much-anticipated stop in Music City.
Celebrating the 30th anniversary of her iconic Merry Christmas album, Carey delivered a performance that reaffirmed her status as the “Queen of Christmas.”
Mariah Carey’s “Christmas Time Tour.” Photo: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Mariah Carey
Carey took the stage to an enthusiastic crowd, opening with a medley that included “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” “Joy to the World” and “Silent Night.” Her powerful vocals resonated throughout the venue, captivating the audience from the outset. The setlist featured a mix of other holiday favorites including “Silent Night” and “O Holy Night” also from her classic holiday album released in 1994.
A highlight of the evening was the surprise appearance of Carey’s 13-year-old twins, her son Moroccan and daughter Monroe, who charmed the audience, along with her dancers, with their playful energy and budding talents while Carey executed a wardrobe change backstage. She then joined her children for a heartwarming rendition of “Here Comes Santa Claus.” The family moment added a personal touch to the concert, emphasizing the themes of love and togetherness central to the holiday season.
Each song was met with enthusiastic sing-alongs, showcasing the deep connection between the artist and her fans. Throughout the concert, Carey engaged with the audience, sharing personal anecdotes about the holiday season and expressing her gratitude for their unwavering support over the years.
Mariah Carey’s “Christmas Time Tour.” Photo: MusicRow
In addition to her holiday repertoire, Carey delighted fans with performances of her timeless songs including “Emotions,” “Hero,” “Fantasy” and “We Belong Together” after telling the audience that she once learned from her booking agent at CAA that you “gotta give them the hits!”
As the opening notes of “All I Want for Christmas Is You” filled the arena, the crowd erupted in anticipation of Carey’s most iconic holiday anthem. Wearing a red jumpsuit reminiscent of what she wore on the cover of her 1994 Christmas album, she was brought to the stage in Santa’s sleigh, surrounded by festive dancers and glittering snow effects. Carey delivered a performance that was both joyous and powerful. Her crystal-clear vocals soared through the timeless melody, uniting the audience in holiday cheer. The performance of the perennial favorite served as the grand finale, leaving the crowd uplifted and brimming with Christmas spirit.
Carey’s “Christmas Time” tour stop in Nashville was a welcomed start to this year’s holiday season in Nashville, offering a perfect blend of holiday cheer and musical excellence from the iconic singer. As the final notes echoed through Bridgestone Arena, it was clear that she had once again captured the hearts of her audience, leaving them with cherished memories to carry through the holiday season as she continued her reign as “Queen of Christmas.”
Dawson Slade Signs With Warner Chappell Music & 1 Track Music
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L–R): Warner Chappell’s BJ Hill, Keller Turner Andrews & Ghanem’s Jason Turner, Dawson Slade, Stetson Slade, 1 Track Music’s Alexander Palmer and Warner Chappell’s Bethany Mako
Singer-songwriter Dawson Slade has signed a global publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music and 1 Track Music.
Slade learned to play the guitar at just four years old, and began writing songs as soon as he could read and write. The Alabama native takes inspiration from the likes of Dean Dillon, Tony Lane and Eric Church. After moving to Nashville in 2023, released his debut single, “Home in My Heart,” followed by “Goodbye Means” earlier this year. As a single father, he aims to pour his personal experiences and southern roots into his songwriting, creating tunes that resonate with audiences.
“Dawson is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of talent, and I’m thrilled that he has entrusted me to guide his journey as an artist and songwriter,” says Alexander Palmer, 1 Track Music Founder. “He’s the first signing to my new publishing company, 1 Track Music, and we’re excited to work alongside the incredible team at Warner Chappell, whose industry expertise will be invaluable as we launch and develop his promising career.”
Weekly Register: Brooks & Dunn Break Into Top Five On Country Albums Chart
/by Liza AndersonBrooks & Dunn‘s Reboot II breaks into the top five on the country albums chart, debuting at No. 5 with 24K in total consumption (10K album only/15 million song streams), according to Luminate data.
Morgan Wallen‘s One Thing At A Time remains at the top with 42K (1K album only/53 million song streams), followed by Jelly Roll‘s Beautifully Broken at No. 2 with 31K (8K album only/29 million song streams). Post Malone‘s F-1 Trillion stays put at No. 3 with 29K (2K album only/34 million song streams), and Wallen’s Dangerous: The Double Album rests at No. 4 with 28K (521 album only/36 million song streams).
On the country streaming songs chart, Shaboozey‘s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” reclaims the No. 1 slot with 15 million new streams, adding to 914 million ATD. Wallen’s “Love Somebody” shifts down to No. 2 with 14 million streams, adding to 98 million ATD, while Post Malone and Wallen’s “I Had Some Help” stays at No. 3 with 13 million new streams, adding to 806 million ATD. Bryan and Kacey Musgraves‘ “I Remember Everything” rises to No. 4 with 9.3 million streams, adding to 1.1 billion ATD, as Bryan’s “Something In The Orange” surges to No. 5 with 8.6 million new streams, adding to 1.7 billion ATD.
Nicolle Galyon To Host Benefit Concert In Kansas Next Year
/by Liza AndersonNicolle Galyon will host “Nicolle Galyon & Friends,” a concert benefitting the Firstborn Fund, at the Fox Theatre in Hutchinson, Kansas on Jan. 18. Gaylon established the fund as a way for to give back to families near her hometown of Sterling, Kansas.
The award-winning songstress and Songs & Daughters Founder will be joined by her husband and fellow hitmaker Rodney Clawson as well as recent CMA Award winner Will Bundy, Lauren Watkins and RaeLynn.
Tickets are available now. For more information, click here.
Luke Combs, Cody Johnson To Headline 2025 Boots In The Park Festival
/by Lorie HollabaughLuke Combs and Cody Johnson are set to headline the upcoming Boots In The Park Festival in Albuquerque, New Mexico on May 17 and 18.
Held at Albuquerque’s Balloon Fiesta Park, the festival will also feature performances by Jon Pardi, Parker McCollum, Scotty McCreery, Ian Munsick, Jackson Dean, Corey Kent, Alana Springsteen, Jade Eagleson, Bryce Leatherwood, Joe Peters and Luwiss Lux.
Boots In The Park attendees will enjoy an all-day country party with live performances, line dancing, craft food from local vendors, a diverse selection of beverages and captivating art installations. Tickets to the two-day country music festival go on sale Friday, Dec. 6.
“We are thrilled to return to New Mexico for year two of Boots In The Park and expand to a two-day festival in 2025,” says Steve Thacher, CEO of Activated Events. “With headliners like Luke Combs and Cody Johnson, along with an incredible supporting lineup, Balloon Fiesta Park will come alive for an unforgettable weekend.”
New Musical Featuring The Avett Brothers Music, ‘Swept Away,’ Opens On Broadway
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R): Wayne Duvall, Stark Sands, Scott Avett, Seth Avett, Bob Crawford, John Gallagher, Jr. and Adrian Blake Enscoe. Photo: Alyssa Greenberg.jpg
Swept Away, a new Broadway musical featuring the music of The Avett Brothers, opened recently at the Longacre Theatre.
The production tells a tale of shipwreck, salvation and brotherhood set on the high seas and incorporates songs from The Avett Brothers’ 2004 album, Mignonette, and other tracks, plus a new song—“Lord Lay Your Hand on My Shoulder”—written by Seth Avett expressly for the production. The Avett Brothers joined the cast on stage for a special curtain call performance of the show’s title track.
The principal cast members, reprising their roles from the show’s previous sold-out runs at Berkeley Repertory in 2022 and Washington DC’s Arena Stage in 2023, include John Gallagher, Jr. (Spring Awakening), Stark Sands (Kinky Boots), Adrian Blake Enscoe (Apple TV+’s Dickinson) and Wayne Duvall (1984). The Avett Brothers joined the Swept Away principals for a performance on NBC’s Today Show last week.
The Broadway debut of Swept Away is the latest in a highlight-filled year for The Avetts. In May, they released their first new album in five years, The Avett Brothers (now a Grammy nominee for Best Recording Package) followed by an extensive tour and appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, CBS Saturday Morning, NPR’s All Things Considered and more. The Avett Brothers were also recently presented with The North Carolina Award, their home state’s highest honor, by Gov. Roy Cooper.